The M1 carbine (formally the United States Carbine, Caliber .30, M1) is a lightweight semi-automatic carbine that was a standard firearm for the U.S. military during World War II,

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It was originally intended as a replacement for the pistol normally carried by Officers, drivers, radiomen. In practice, many soldiers wanted a carbine because of its small size and light weight.

 

Despite having a similar name and appearance, the M1 carbine is not a carbine version of the M1 Rifle. They are two different firearms, they also used different ammunition. On July 1, 1925, the U.S. Army began using the current naming system where the "M" is the designation for "Model" and the number represents the sequential development of equipment and weapons. 

Therefore, the "M1 rifle" was the first rifle developed under this system. The "M1 carbine" was the first carbine developed under this system
 

Although listed as .30 caliber, the M1 carbine round is nothing like the M1 Rifle round, and is little more than a high-powered pistol cartridge.

The WWII carbines did not have the bayonet lug attached. 

 

Shown in the pictures are the standard 15 round magazines and ammo pouches. Also shown is the standard-issue khaki web sling.